Commodity trading giant Vitol Group distributed $5.9 billion to its executives and senior staff via share buybacks in the past year. This significant payout occurred even as the company experienced a substantial decline in its profits.

Vitol's profits more than halved, dropping to $4.2 billion in the same period. Despite the reduced profitability, the company proceeded with substantial distributions to its key personnel, highlighting a complex financial picture for the energy trading behemoth.

The decision to disburse such a large sum to traders, while profits were significantly down, underscores the unique compensation structures within the commodity trading industry. The specifics of how this $5.9 billion was allocated among individuals remain within the company.